2008 Saab 9-5 2.3L Petrol · RK08 OAZ

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 6 July 2026, but the overall maintenance trend indicates a reactive rather than proactive approach to upkeep. While the car generally passes, the 2025 failure was significant, involving a dangerous tyre and an engine management light malfunction. There is a concerning pattern of recurring advisories, particularly regarding suspension components and seat belt webbing, which have persisted across multiple years without being permanently rectified. With 137,962 miles recorded over 18 years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 7,665 miles per year. This usage rate is typical for its age and suggests consistent use rather than prolonged periods of standing. However, this mileage puts the car in a phase where high-wear consumables and rubber-based components, such as suspension bushes and engine mounts, are likely reaching the end of their natural service life, which is reflected in the MOT history. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the rear suspension, as worn arm pins and bushes have been flagged repeatedly. During a test drive, listen for clunks or knocks when traversing uneven surfaces and feel for any instability or wandering during cornering. The deteriorated exhaust mentioned in the latest report should be inspected for corrosion and leaks, which may manifest as an increased drone or rasping sound under acceleration. Additionally, the persistent fraying of the offside front seat belt webbing should be physically inspected to ensure it remains structurally sound and safe for use. Given the previous failure for an engine management light and a recorded oil leak, it is essential to verify that the engine is running smoothly without any warning lamps illuminated on the dashboard. Check the engine bay for signs of fresh oil seepage and request evidence of the repair for the 2025 engine malfunction. Finally, the history of perishing and dangerously worn tyres suggests a lack of attention to rubber components; therefore, all tyres should be checked for sidewall cracking and date codes to ensure they are not aged beyond their safe operational limit.